Doing the right thing

Published in the Jamaica Gleaner: Friday | September 7, 2007

So now, what are we going to talk about? The last month has been a smorgasbord of energetic debate over the issues of the nation. Like never before in my lifetime have I seen people of all walks of life engaged in discussion on the matters of the state, regardless of their political affiliation. It was an exciting time to be a Jamaican.

There were a few distractions, the fascination with the superficial and the political parties trying to use it to their advantage; but for the most part we talked about education, health care, society, corruption, crime and the economy. We paid close attention to what our leaders were saying, and likewise they had to listen to us. The election energised a population that has largely been apathetic, and it clearly energised our leaders on both sides.

Eager for action

Riding from this energy, we are now eager to see some action. It has seemed like my five-year-old could have counted the ballots faster than the EOJ as we eagerly awaited what has to be seen as a new era. The results not ideal for governance, will ensure a lively Parliament and we will benefit from a strong Opposition, something we have been lacking for some time. Likewise, there can no longer be any complacency in the leadership. This time if they snooze they will most certainly lose.

Yet, as we enter into this new administration, there is the fear that the promises of change will fade into the distance and instead we will be faced with more of the same. The path of least resistance is certainly the easy option, but we really need to shake things up. Not only must we expect our leaders to take strides for a better Jamaica, but we also must play our role.

We must be unrelenting in our demand for change. We must be unforgiving of corruption and crime, and demand accountability of our leaders. We must continue to be au fait with the issues of the nation and we must continue to demand answers to our questions.We must take the time to discuss it with our neighbours, employees and employers so we can get a wider perspective.

There is no doubt that our politicians are in for a rough ride, but welcome to the real world, guys. Any Jamaican who is trying to do business, put a child through school, get good health care and pay bills will tell you that it is not easy to get ahead in this country. But a desire to get ahead is something we all have in common, and if we can unite around that premise and demand a better Jamaica and be prepared to make our own changes, then we may just see the improvements we have been asking for.

It will not take long to get a taste of fate. Our new Prime Minister will be taking some critical decisions in the days to come. We will be watching carefully to see if he can put the interests of the party behind the interests of the nation and act in accordance with his commitment to eradicate corruption.

In the last few months I have seen a number of people who seem very passionate about their country and its future, some are in political parties, some out. The question is, are they willing to do the right thing?
Tara Clivio is a freelance journalist.